Maui, Lanai and Molokai are known as the Magic Isles for good reason. The tempting tropical setting has enchanted countless meeting groups over the years, and attendees’ worries have been known to disappear here faster than a sandcastle at high tide.
Following are several amazing ways to make your own Maui magic for groups, from a superb snorkeling sojourn to an unforgettable farming foray.
Molokini Snorkeling and Scuba
To the untrained eye, the islet of Molokini certainly doesn’t look like much: A rocky, crescent-shaped curve of land barely rising out of the water off of Maui’s southwest shores. But those that look beneath the surface—literally, via a snorkeling or scuba outing—will discover colorful sea life during an unforgettable experience.
“Molokini is one of the most unique snorkeling and diving destinations you will encounter in the Hawaiian Islands,” says LiAnne Coon of outfitter Trilogy Excursions which often works with such hotels as the Grand Wailea in serving groups. “The crater itself is a 15- to 25-foot-deep oasis of crystal-clear waters and tropical reef fish, while the back side of the crater drops to depths of 400-plus feet—often where advanced open-water dives take place. Groups chartering a private snorkeling excursion to Molokini are able to customize a half-day or full day of snorkel adventure.”
Well over 200 species of marine life can be spotted in and around the crater, including small reef sharks and moray eels. A nearby “turtle cleaning station”—where large sea turtles congregate to actually be “cleaned” by smaller fish—gives attendees the unique chance to come in close contact with these captivating creatures. Attendees should be forewarned about touching the turtles, as there are rather strict laws and heavy fines in place to protect their well-being.
Mama’s Fish House
When it comes time to dine on the Magic Isle, it’s hard to picture a more idyllic setting than Mama’s Fish House, set along the North Shore on a white-sand beach dotted with coconut palms.
“Mama’s Fish House is the perfect place to relax with a small group of 12 or less, or a romantic lunch or dinner with your special companion after a busy schedule with your large group,” says Karen Christenson, vice president of the restaurant and inn, who explains that seating is limited for larger groups but that buyouts are available.
“There really is no place like Mama’s, partly due to location but also due to the fact that two people have worked most of their life to make Mama’s as special as possible,” she adds. “The same owners from day one in 1973: Floyd and Doris Christenson.”
A fun and funky interior within a former beach house showcases tropical touches, colorful flowers and wonderful woodworking, while an eclectic menu presents creatively prepared seafood and numerous Polynesian delights. It’s little surprise that Mama’s has been a favorite of locals and visitors for nearly four decades.
Garden of the Gods, Lanai
In a place renowned for its smooth sandy beaches and lush tropical foliage, a stark and rocky enclave barren of plant life might be the last thing groups expect. Yet, that’s precisely what attendees will encounter at the Garden of the Gods, covertly tucked away at the end of a rocky road in Lanai’s northern climes.
The one-of-a-kind landscape—laden with unusual rock spires and formations formed by eons of erosion—truly puts a spell on groups during a dusk excursion. Rays from the setting sun provide a glowing effect that shimmers with vibrant oranges, reds and purples. Vistas from the locale of Molokai and Oahu add another nice touch.
Even the lore surrounding the outcropping is compelling. According to Hawaiian legend, the windswept grounds resulted from a challenge between two kahuna (priests) from Lanai and Molokai, with each of them tasked with keeping a fire raging on their respective island longer than the other. The Lanai priest used every bit of vegetation in the area to keep his fire going, which is supposedly why this area is currently so desolate.
While the Garden of the Gods is not easy to access, with unpaved Polihua Road requiring a four-wheel-drive vehicle, groups making the trek will be rewarded with a true slice of Maui magic.
The Grand Luau at Honua’ula
One of the most quintessentially Hawaiian experiences is without a doubt the famed luau, essentially a Polynesian-themed party bursting with food, music, dance and revelry. And one of the best in the islands is the Grand Luau at Honua’ula, along the island’s southwest coast.
“The Grand Luau at Honua’ula gives a true Hawaiian lua’u experience by educating and entertaining guests about the Polynesian folktale of the discovery of the island of Maui,” remarks Pono Murray, kumu hula (hula teacher) and creative director for The Grand Luau at Honua’ula. “This show touches upon the different characters and stories that belong specifically to the south side of Maui. The beauty of this location at Grand Wailea is that it sits on Honua’ula, the beach where we can see and scan the horizon and the different places we mention in our stories.”
Guests are welcomed with a lei greeting and a tropical beverage (the mai tai being a popular choice), before enjoying a buffet dinner, open bar and vivacious singing, dancing and live music performed by mostly native Hawaiian performers. Other memorable fun includes a talented fire-knife dancer blowing the crowd away with a dazzling and potentially dangerous (to himself) routine.
“The entire evening is one memorable experience, but in particular, groups may participate in pre-show activities, such as our ancient lawn bowling game, Hawaiian tattoos, Imu Ceremony, take photos with cast members and enjoy the buffet and bar,” adds Murray. “They leave with more appreciation and understanding of the culture and its people.”
Road to Hana
For many Maui-goers, a long and meandering drive along the island’s southeast corner provides the highlight of their entire visit. That’s because the Road to Hana, also known as the Hana Highway, provides a heavenly hiatus of lovely landscapes, and is frequently listed among the most scenic drives in the world.
“Maui’s most magnificent scenery of waterfalls and hiking trails can be discovered here,” says Sherry Duong, director of meetings, conventions, incentives and international sales for the Maui Visitors & Convention Bureau.
Set aside several hours for the meandering, 50-plus mile journey that crosses 59 bridges and winds through more than 600 curves. Highlights include black- and red-sand beaches, waterfalls and endless rainforest scenery. Twin Falls, reached via a short hike near Mile Marker 2 is a must-stop, as are the Pools of Oheo Gulch—actually located several miles past Hana as you traverse the island in a clockwise manner.
The Hana Highway is a perfect outing for a small carpooling group, but several touring companies offer full-fledged explorations of the scenic drive as well. Among them are Valley Isle Excursions, which serves groups of up to 12 in its luxury vans, and Discover Hawaii, which also offers a Maui Food Tour.
Mt. Haleakala
Dominating the island’s eastern geography, Mt. Haleakala towers over it all at nearly two miles tall. More than a million visitors make their way to the peak every year, to take in sublime views of the entire island and beyond—and to peer into the massive crater that could literally contain the entire island of Manhattan.
While the suggestion of the VCB’s Sherry Duong to “start your day with an invigorating sunrise” is an excellent one, there are several other ways to savor the majestic mountain.
All Maui Tours provides an adventure ideal for active groups—a tour of the National Park atop the peak followed by an exhilarating mountain bike down its curving slopes. Aloha Top Ten offers a similar experience—and the option of seeing Haleakala by helicopter, ATV rides and hiking jaunts.
Regardless of how your group encounters the mountain known as the “House of the Sun,” some magical memories are certain to be made.
Molokai Mule Ride
Hawaii and horseback riding are practically synonymous, but for groups seeking something a bit different, an amazing mule ride awaits on Maui’s neighboring island of Molokai.
It’s not just sauntering along on these “beasts of burden” at the island’s northern tip that makes this a truly special experience. The just-under-three-mile ride takes attendees along the highest sea cliffs in the entire world before arriving at the historic beachside village of Kalaupapa—a former leper colony now holding status as a National Historic Park. One of the most remote settlements in the Hawaiian islands, the locale is serene, secluded and ideal for achieving the priceless feeling of not having a care in the world.
Kalaupapa Rare Adventure is the outfitter to contact regarding the mule rides, which works in conjunction with Father Damien Tours to provide the outings. A picnic lunch is normally included, and highlights, in addition to the village visit, include a stop at the gravesite of Father Damien, who gave the last 16 years of his life to caring for the outcasts of the leper colony before succumbing himself in 1889.
The excursions are occasionally even led by former patients still residing in the village, providing a personal perspective few tours can match.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
It would only figure on the Magic Isle that even a farm tour would be, well, magical.
“Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala Crater, Ali’i Kula Lavender is a world-class lavender estate known to many as one of the most exquisite of locations on Earth and where you can experience the serenity and beauty of Upcountry Maui like you’ve never done before,” says Toni Stanich, manager of commercial and corporate sales. “Enjoy breathtaking views that stretch as far as the eye can see from this artistically landscaped 13-acre farm.”
Guided walking tours are provided five times daily, and golf cart tours (limited to five attendees) can be made by calling in advance. A gift shop provides all-things-lavender, from enticing edibles like lavender honey to unique bath products such as an organic gardener’s lotion that softens the hands while simultaneously repelling insects.
The farm is also the frequent site of its own special events, ranging from “treasure hunts” to picnic lunches to note card-making workshops. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day aside from Thanksgiving and Christmas.
